Kennedy tetra - Astyanax kennedyi

Scientific name: Astyanax kennedyi

Common name: Kennedy tetra

Family: Characidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 5 - 6 cm (1.97 - 2.36 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.5 - 7.2

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 6 - 16°N (107.14 - 285.71ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 26 °C (73.4 - 78.8°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and feeding

Kennedy tetras thrive on a balanced diet. A quality flake food or small pellets should serve as their daily staple, ensuring they receive essential nutrients. For variety and to boost their health, supplement their diet with high-protein treats like live or frozen blood worms, white worms, and brine shrimp. Feed these treats 2-3 times a week to promote vibrant colors and overall well-being. Additionally, they enjoy small amounts of daphnia or finely chopped vegetable matter, which can help mimic their natural feeding habits. It’s important to feed them in small amounts to avoid overfeeding and maintain water quality.

Origin

Kennedy tetras, scientifically known as Astyanax kennedyi, originate from the upper Amazonian Basins of South America. This region provides an ideal environment of slow-moving rivers, streams, and densely vegetated waters, which serve as both feeding grounds and shelter from predators. The Amazon basin is renowned for its biodiversity, and Kennedy tetras are just one example of the vibrant aquatic life found in this habitat. The water in these areas tends to be slightly acidic with a moderate current, conditions that can be mimicked in an aquarium setup.

Sexing

Females tend to have a plumper body shape than the males.

Breeding

Provide the parents with a planted tank for breeding. Condition the fish on plenty of live foods for 2-3 weeks prior to moving them to the breeding tank. The eggs will be scattered around the tank and at this stage the parents should be removed. The eggs will hatch 2-3 days later and the fry will be free swimming a few days after this. They can be fed on Infusoria initially.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Astyanax kennedyi is 5-8 years.

Short description

Kennedy tetras are active schooling fish that need to be kept in groups of at least six to feel secure and display natural behavior. They are energetic swimmers and can become territorial if not kept in larger numbers. While they are generally peaceful, they may nip at slow-moving or long-finned tankmates, so avoid housing them with shy or easily stressed fish. These tetras are best suited for community aquariums with similarly active species. They prefer well-planted tanks with some open swimming space and appreciate dim lighting, which replicates their natural environment.